Propranolol Does Not Increase Inflammation, Sepsis, or Infectious Episodes in Severely Burned Children

BACKGROUND: Propranolol, a nonselective beta1-2 antagonist, attenuates hypermetabolism and catabolism in severely burned patients. However, recent data suggest that propranolol impairs immune function and enhances inflammation. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of propranolol administration on infection, sepsis, and inflammation in severely burned pediatric patients. PATIENTS: A prospective, intent-to-treat study was …